Socially Distant Outdoor Activities
Fresh, beautiful and open-air natural spaces are located in every corner of Newport Beach. From hiking and biking trails to an ecological reserve and the West Coast’s largest recreational harbor, there are a variety of inspiring places to enjoy the great outdoors at a social distance. And Newport Beach recreational businesses are here to provide endless hours of fun, perfect for a solo outing or with members of your household. Please contact individual businesses about safety guidelines and protocols in advance.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding with Pirate Coast Paddle Company
Spend a few hours paddling by day or at night via glow-in-the-dark paddleboards on the calm, meditative waters of the Back Bay. The beautiful wetlands are protected and are thriving with serene wildlife year-round. If SUP is too intimidating for beginners, Pirate Coast Paddle Company also offers kayaks for rent.
Hiking or Biking the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Filled with diverse plant and animal life, the 3.5-mile leisure loop along the bluffs of the scenic Back Bay is perfect for joggers, walkers and bikers. Families with little ones will enjoy the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center with an observatory deck and plenty of interactive exhibits. Those looking for more of a workout can opt to do the full 10.5-mile loop around the Back Bay.
Oceanfront Hiking at Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park boasts three miles of dramatic coastline with tide pools and rocky coves. Along the cliffs, there is a path parallel to the ocean that is perfect for hiking and observing all of the natural beauty Newport Beach has to offer. After, walk down to the water to spot sea urchin, starfish and many more creatures who call the tide pools home.
Duffy It Up on Newport Harbor
Embrace the nautical lifestyle by renting a Duffy boat and spending the day cruising Newport Harbor. Available to anyone with a driver’s license to rent, centrally located Electric Boat Rentals at Lido Marina Village offers brightly colored Duffy boats for rent. Don’t forget to pick up bites to eat from surrounding restaurants such as Lido Bottle Works, zinqué and Malibu Farm.
Private Whale Watching Excursion with Newport Coastal Adventure
Those looking for more of a thrill will enjoy the private whale watching tours offered by Newport Coastal Adventure. Available for groups up to 6 people, your personal captain with navigate the ocean onboard a 24-foot-long US NAVY patrol boat for a safe and fun experience.
Gardens of Newport Beach
Within one mile in Newport Beach, you will find three distinct garden experiences to stroll to admire the beauty of flowers and green spaces.
- Sherman Library & Gardens: Sherman Library & Gardens is a 2.2. acre horticultural oasis. The gardens are set among patios and a conservatory linked together by wide brick wall ways, beds blooming with seasonal flowers and decorative tiled fountains.
- Roger’s Gardens: Roger’s Gardens is the ultimate creative home and garden leader and serves as the mecca for those seeking imaginative ideas and exceptional products for outdoor and indoor living.
- Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park: Nestled next to Newport Beach City Hall are the civic center gardens where guests can stroll 1.23 miles of walking trails around the sculpture exhibition which is the city’s largest display of public art, all situated among a variety of serene native plants.
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